Frequent flyer programs are loyalty programs offered by airlines to reward their customers for traveling with the airlines.
Different airlines offer benefits to the customers through the program, depending on the airline. Signing up for the program allows a customer to earn frequent flyer miles or points.
According to BIZAWAY, a business travel management platform, the points can be converted into discounts on the next flight purchase.
“By enrolling in a frequent flyer program (available for many airlines) and purchasing travel, you can accumulate points (or figurative miles) that can be converted into discounts on your next flight purchase,” part of the 2026 guide on frequent flyer programs by BIZAWAY stated.
Accumulating airline miles by booking flights and making other direct purchases with that program’s airline can be done through the use of airline credit cards or travel cards.
Airline Credit Cards
Airline credit cards are partnered with specific airlines. Card members automatically become loyalty members of the frequent flyer program and, therefore, earn miles or points when making purchases with their card.
Some airline cards may also offer air travel benefits such as in-flight Wi-Fi and discounted food and beverages.
Travel credit cards, on the other hand, earn points through eligible purchases made across multiple spending categories and airlines.
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Benefits of frequent flyer programs
Frequent flyer programs may allow you to redeem your miles or points toward the cost of your next flight through their airline.
Frequent flyers can also upgrade to a higher cabin class, have access to airline lounges, and receive complimentary bag checks.
Moreover, the program allows the frequent flyer to be given priority during the boarding process.
Disadvantages of the program
Despite the program having advantages, the flyer may be faced with the restriction on redeeming miles or points during peak seasons for air travel, like major holidays.
Miles can only be redeemed during a limited period before they expire and become unusable.
Frequent flyer programs only allow one to earn and redeem miles through the airline sponsoring the program, therefore making it impossible to fly with multiple airlines to accumulate the miles or use the accumulated miles.
Additionally, some programs are free to join, but some charge an annual fee to maintain membership.
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Airlines that offer frequent flyer programs
- SkyTeam
- KLM–Air France: the program is referred to as Flying Blue
- British Airways has the service under the Executive Club.
- Lufthansa
- Emirates refers to the program as Emirates Skywards
- American Airlines: under this airline, the frequent flyer program is called AAdvantage.
- Iberia: the program is called Iberia Plus.
A customer can join the program by signing up on the official website of the airline that they wish.
Alternatively, one can sign up in person through an airline representative at the airport.
Factors to consider when choosing the program
- Travel habits.
- Earn and redeem rates.
- Benefits from the program.
- Membership charges.
